This walk follows the course of two old railway lines: the link to the naval depot at Port Edgar, Queensferry and the route between Dalmeny and Ratho which passed by Kirkliston. Before starting, it is recommended you have a wander along the charming Queensferry waterfront. The massive girders of the Forth Bridge dominate the settlement. The railway path can be reached from the shore by heading up The Loan (B907) for 200 yards and entering the car park at the small shopping precinct on your right. The tarmac surface makes it a popular stroll for locals and we walk above the village. Occasional gaps open in the trees to reveal the Forth Bridge in its stunning Victorian glory.
The path curves around towards Dalmeny Station although this route bypassed the passenger halt. We do hook up with the East Coast Main Line at the point where the scarcely-used Dalmeny Chord veers off. We then pass under the motorway and continue hugging the main line along a narrow tree-lined track. The ends in a flight of wooden steps and we descend to pass under the railway and continue on the other side.
We now pick up the path of the Ratho line which has long straight sections with views towards Edinburgh to the east and the shale bings to the west. The latter are now embedded into the West Lothian landscape and apparently enjoy protected status! Eventually we reach Kirkliston and the path skirts the edge of the village before crossing the River Avon on a three-arch viaduct. It is possible to keep going but Kirkliston makes a good finishing point. The Newliston Arms is an old-fashioned cosy pub in the centre of the village and real ale is served. You can either walk back to Queensferry or catch Lothian Bus 63. There are several eating and drinking options back on the Firth of Forth.
